Art and Art History Major

The Art and Art History Department offers opportunities for studies in art history, digital art, studio art, and design. All students take a set of five key foundation courses-covering art history and theory, drawing, and sculpture-plus seven more courses of their own choosing from a wide selection. All majors complete their degree with a senior-level capstone course that comprises an in-depth investigation in a chosen area, for a total of 13 courses (39 credit hours).

Past majors have focused on art historical research and analysis, the creation of an individual portfolio of creative work, or a selection of courses in both the study and making of art. Embracing the latest media technologies, the Art and Art History Department is also committed to the digital arts. Students can work with the newest multimedia and imaging technologies in conjunction with LVC's Digital Communications Department. The department also offers guidelines for future graduate study in architecture, art therapy, and conservation.

Whatever area of study you choose, you will receive personalized advising by our faculty to help shape the right path for you. Graduates of our program go on to rewarding careers in the workplace or graduate school.

Majors in art and art history must take each of the following courses and seven other art and art history elective courses.

Addressing the basic question "What is art?" this course explores the physical, perceptual and philosophical elements of visual art and architecture. Materials and methods, the role of artists, cultural ideals and changing ideas of beauty are studied as the basis for looking at, and discussing, art throughout the ages. 3 credits.
Using traditional methods in a variety of media, this essential studio course explores drawing as a way of seeing and recording visual information from the world around us. Principles of composition and explorations of personal expression are also introduced. 3 credits.
An introduction to art and architecture in its historical and cultural context from the ziggurats of Mesopotamia and the pyramids of dynastic Egypt to the temples of ancient Greece and Rome, the mosaics of Byzantium and the illuminated manuscripts and soaring cathedrals of medieval Europe. Attention is paid to skills in critical description and visual analysis. 3 credits.
Through the use of time-honored materials - plaster, clay and wood - this studio course investigates three-dimensional form as a basis for art and design. Modeling, carving, mold-making and assemblage are introduced as essential sculptural processes in a variety of projects. 3 credits.
From Giotto to Giacometti, Fragonard to Frank Lloyd Wright, an examination of the visual and material culture of the Western world from the fourteenth century to the present day. Special attention is paid to aesthetics, economics, gender, and nationalism. Writing process. 3 credits.
The focus on this course is an extensive research project in art history or the creation and exhibition of a unique body of work in the art studio, facilitated by individual tutorials and group discussion. 3 credits.